Halloween in Victoria has its cozy side: pumpkin patches, spooky movie nights, kids in dinosaur costumes. Then there's the other side, where a crowd of very committed people in fake blood and torn clothes groans its way through downtown. This weekend, it's that second side's turn.
My first Halloween here, I honestly didn't realize grown adults went *this* hard. Ten years later, I'm still delighted every time.
What's happening
The Zombie Walk is a costumed procession of the undead (well, locals and visitors dressed as them) moving through downtown streets. Everyone shambles along together, and onlookers line the sidewalks. VictoriaBuzz's headline sums up the vibe nicely: *Be prepared!* 🚨
Full details are in the source article: Undead set to take over downtown Victoria during this weekend's Zombie Walk.
When and where
- When: This weekend, the last full weekend of October heading into Halloween. Check the VictoriaBuzz article for the exact day, start time and meeting spot. I'd rather send you there than guess and have you show up to an empty street.
- Where: Downtown Victoria. The article has the route, so you can pick a good corner to watch from or figure out where to join in.
Why it's perfect if you're staying downtown
- You can walk there. Ocean Island is right downtown, so no buses, no parking and no planning around transit. Step outside and follow the groaning.
- It's great people-watching. Some of the makeup and costumes are seriously impressive. Bring your phone, because you'll want photos.
- You can join in. Throw together a costume and you go from tourist to temporary local zombie in about twenty minutes.
- It's a very Victoria way to spend Halloween. It's friendly and a bit silly, and that's what the city does best.
BeiBei's tips for surviving the undead
Dress for the weather (yes, even zombies)
We get a lot of rain in late October, won't lie. A layer under your shredded shirt and a hood or poncho will keep you a happy zombie instead of a soggy one. Fake blood and drizzle make a messy combination.
Low-budget zombie look
You really don't need to buy a costume. Old clothes you don't mind ripping, some smudged dark makeup around the eyes and a slow, dramatic shuffle get you most of the way. The pharmacies and dollar-type shops downtown usually stock basic face paint this time of year.
Refuel afterwards
Shambling builds an appetite. Chinatown is just a short walk away, with plenty of noodle and dumpling spots for a warm bowl after standing out in the October air. Zombie makeup is optional at dinner, though maybe wipe off the fake blood first.
Make a weekend of it
If you're in town for a few days, the night before has plenty going on too. VictoriaBuzz's Friday round-up for October 23rd promises *two markets in one day*, which sounds like a good warm-up before your undead debut.
Not sure where to meet up or need a hand pulling together a last-minute costume? Swing by the Ocean Island front desk. We're always happy to help you find the fun (and the nearest bowl of hot noodles) 🧟♀️
